Choosing the perfect Christmas tree

Christmas spirit is in abundance at farms throughout the Garden State. Growers are putting on the final touches in preparation for visits by thousands of folks in search of their "perfect" Christmas tree. Our farm in Wantage has finished the mowing and shearing and this week we are bringing in a barnyard of animals to join the permanent critters who reside here at Shale Hills Farm.

New Jersey boasts hundreds of locations where people can enjoy a day in the country and form long-lasting family memories. These farms offer so much more than just a tree. Many have Christmas music, refreshments, animal displays, hay rides and even daily visits by Old Saint Nick himself.

While roughly a third of households have artificial (or as I like to call them, "plastic, fake and imported") trees, almost an equal amount value the tradition of the real American-grown Christmas tree. Real trees are 100 percent recyclable and renewable. For every tree harvested, three seedlings are planted in its place. Growing trees capture carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Land that would otherwise be sold to housing developers is kept natural and green.

On the other hand, fake trees are primarily manufactured in China, are made of plastic, and once they enter a landfill can take centuries to decompose.

In terms of the perfect tree, "perfection" is all in the eyes of the beholder. Some people prefer heavily sheared tight trees. Others prefer a more open tree. This year, we have tried a slightly lighter touch on shearing with an attempt to create a more natural appearance. Regardless of the type, shape or size of tree that folks are searching for, there is certainly a nearby farm that can meet their requests.

Families wishing to spend a nice old-fashioned start to their holiday season are encouraged to visit the N.J. Christmas Tree Growers website at www.NJChristmasTrees.org.

Michael Garrett
Shale Hills Farm

Wantage